Witches
Likes to mock people, but have respect for Macbeth. I think they show respect to higher class people like the thanes (i.e. Macbeth and saying "hail"). On the other hand, considering the fact they are casting a spell on the sailor's wife, they don't seem to like people. They can see the future and have the power to put spells on winds. They have beards on their faces, so it is hard to recognize if they are men or women.
Macbeth
Very naive and nice, since he doesn't want to take the position of the thane of Cawdor, since the thane of Cawdor is alive. Macbeth also shows a slight tendency to believe what the witches have predicted. He is both the thane of Cawdor and Glamis, after Ross and Angus tells him that he is. He is ambitious and anxious by the fact that he is imagining of killing King Duncan.
Banquo
I think Banquo is like a friend of Macbeth. He is very suspicious and acutely intense about the future that the witches predict.
Ross
He is the messenger of the king, and comes with Angus.
Angus
He is the other messenger of the king, who comes with Ross. He tells Macbeth that he will be awarded for winning against the Norwegians.
Outline:
In the first part of act 1 scene 3, the witches appear and talks about the sailor's wife and that they will curse her husband (sailor) for her behavior. Then, Macbeth and Banquo appears. The witches suddenly show respect for Macbeth and tells him he will become the thane of Cawdor and a king later on. Jealous from the prophecy made to Macbeth, Banquo insist the witches that they tell him something as well. The witches make a prediction that Banquo would be the father of kings. When Macbeth and Banquo are alarmed and about to ask the witches if it is true, the witches are gone. Angus and Ross comes and informs Macbeth about him becoming the thane of Cawdor, due to the treason of the original thane of Cawdor. Macbeth and Banquo are both alarmed that the prophecy of the witches were true. Banquo is still reluctant to believe the witches' words, but Macbeth is stimulated and excited by the though of killing King Duncan. Banquo is worried that Macbeth is falling for the devil. Macbeth and Banquo then follow the messengers to the king.
Conflicts:
The witches make a prophecy about the future of Macbeth and Banquo. They tell Macbeth, he will become the thane of Cawdor and a king later on, and tell Banquo that he will become the father of kings. This foreshadows that something will occur in the future according to the prophecy (either it is going to come true or not, but there is a high possibility of coming true, because the prophecy that Macbeth will become the thane of Cawdor came true). Also Macbeth becomes the thane of Cawdor and Glamis, and this starts his ambition for more glory. This also proves the credibility of the witches and derives to a conclusion that Macbeth will become a king later on.
Macbeth 1.5&1.6 Reflection
What do we learn about Lady Macbeth in these scenes?
Lady Macbeth is pleased that Macbeth becomes the thane of Cawdor, and is afraid at the same time. She is afraid because Macbeth mentions in his letter his ambitions towards getting the crown, and Lady Macbeth thinks what Macbeth is trying to do will not succeed, because Macbeth lacks the bad intentions to carry out the murder. Thus, Lady Macbeth tries to support Macbeth's ambition by murdering the king or Malcom with her hands.
How might Lady Macbeth answer the question “What is the meaning of life?” Explain your answer.
I think she might answer that the meaning of life is to sacrifice yourself for the one you love. We can see this in 1.5, line 63-65, when Lady Macbeth tells Macbeth to leave it all to her. She is trying to sacrifice her life/reputation for Macbeth's fame, and just take all the blame for the death of the King.
Identify and write out two of Lady Macbeth’s lines that are particularly striking. Explain why you selected the lines.
Look like th' innocent flower,
But be the serpent under ’t
(1.5, line 56-57)
I thought this line was shocking, because Lady Macbeth just got the letter, and knows what is going on in Macbeth's mind. She even tells Macbeth to act like an innocent flower, but be the snake, which surprised me since she is giving orders to Macbeth to get him slyer. From this passage did I realize that the real sly and evil one is Lady Macbeth. However, it might seem only natural that Lady Macbeth tries to help her husband win glory and fame.
Come, you spirits
That tend on mortal thoughts, unsex me here,And fill me from the crown to the toe top-fullOf direst cruelty. Make thick my blood.Stop up the access and passage to remorse,
(1.5, line 30-34)
This part was striking to me as well, because it shows the willingness of Lady Macbeth to support Macbeth to become the king. I was amazed that she is sacrificing herself for the fame of her husband, because it would be very hard to give up your life even for a person you love.
Identify one significant word that Lady Macbeth uses in 1.5 or 1.6, and define both the denotation and connotation of the word. Explain why you think the word is significant.
Honor (1.6, line 17)
Denotation: high respect, esteem
Connotation: It has a good meaning to it, and it has a respectful tone to it. It slightly has a tone of a servant respecting his master.
Discussion preparation
Question: Why has Macbeth decided to kill King Duncan by the end of Act 1?
Answer:
Macbeth is reluctant to kill King Duncan in the first part of scene 7. However, he changes his mind and decides to kill Duncan because of Lady Macbeth. Lady Macbeth persuades and encourages Macbeth to kill Duncan by provoking Macbeth. Below are quotes from Lady Macbeth that stimulated Macbeth in deciding to kill Duncan.
Textual Evidence: “When Duncan is asleep-whereto the rather shall his day’s hard journey soundly invite him-his two chamberlains will I with wine and wassail so convince that memory, the warder of the brain, shall be a fume, and the receipt of reason a limbeck only (1.7, line 60-72).” - Lady Macbeth has specific plans laid out that convinces Macbeth that this plan can not possibly fail. Before Lady Macbeth told him the plan, he feared they might fail in killing the King, but after Lady Macbeth told him the plan, Macbeth is convinced that the plan is perfect and is going to work. We can see this from the tone of Macbeth’s line before and after the quote explained.
Textual Evidence: “Was the hope drunk wherein you dressed yourself? Hath it slept since? And wakes it now, to look so green and pale at what it did so freely? (1.7, line 36-45)” - Lady Macbeth continuously provokes Macbeth by saying stimulating words like “and live a coward in thine own esteem” and “like the poor cat i’th’ adage?” These words spur Macbeth’s pride as a thane. Lady Macbeth continuously mocks Macbeth’s courage and his behavior before (wanting to kill Duncan and ambitious). This builds up in Macbeth’s mind and possibly pressures him to decide to kill Duncan.
Textual Evidence: “What beast was’t, then, that made you break this enterprise to me? When you durst do it, then you were a man; And to be more than what you were, you would be so much more the man. Nor time nor place did then adhere, and yet you would make both. They have made themselves, and that their fitness now does unmake you. (1.7, line 47-53)”- Lady Macbeth compares the Macbeth before Duncan came to the castle and the Macbeth in the scene. She praises the Macbeth before and shows grave disappointment towards the way Macbeth is cowering in the scene. This also becomes a stimulus for Macbeth. It also gives Macbeth a reason to kill Duncan, because he should try pleasing his wife.
Textual Evidence: “Have plucked my nipple from his boneless gums and dashed the brains out, had I so sworn as you have done to this. (1.7, line 57-59)”- Lady Macbeth shows her determination of keeping her words if she had promised them. This may affect Macth’s pride, because he is a thane that slashes enemies open and Lady Macbeth is a woman that take cares of children. This quote might’ve made Macbeth feel competitive and less braver than Lady Macbeth, which he will not tolerate happening.
Conclusion of the discussion:
I heard an interesting idea from Joshua. He believed that the main reason why Macbeth decided to kill King Duncan was because of his ambitions. He claimed that Lady Macbeth merely spurred Macbeth to making his decisions firm. Hojoon also mentioned that Macbeth was trying to find a person who would support him, like Lady Macbeth, and he already had the intention to kill Duncan. However, I disagreed because the ambition Macbeth had wasn't very strong and he was not so willing to kill Duncan in the fear of the consequences. However, after Lady Macbeth told him specific plans that would resolve the consequences and blames laid to him, Macbeth was determined to kill Duncan. Thus Lady Macbeth is the reason why Macbeth decided to kill the king by the end of Act 1.
Act 2 Reflection
How does Macbeth react to the killing of Duncan? Why does he react this way?
Macbeth feels very guilty after killing Duncan (2). I think at least he has a conscience, but Lady Macbeth doesn't, since Macbeth actually fears and feels guilt for murdering Duncan. He fears going back to the scene of murder since he doesn't have the guts to go and see the murder he committed (1). He is afraid that he will get punished and he hears voices, because of the overwhelming guilt. Him hearing voices shows that Macbeth is a very cowardly man that has a weak ambition. Also he fears his hands, because it is bloody from the murder. He doubt that his hands are going to be washed even by the ocean (3). From act 2, it seems more like Lady Macbeth has a bigger ambition than he does. Thus, I think Macbeth reacts in a cowardly way since he has a weak ambition and is reluctant to be the king. Also he may not fully believe the prophecy of the witches, which makes him hesitate and look back on what he has done. This weak and hesitant character of Macbeth might make him to react in a cowardly way.
Textual Evidence:
I’ll go no more:I am afraid to think what I have done;Look on ’t again I dare not. (2.2, line 55)
(looking at his hands) This is a sorry sight. (2.2, line 24)
What hands are here? Ha! They pluck out mine eyes.Will all great Neptune’s ocean wash this blood Clean from my hand? (2.2, line 59-61)
How does Lady Macbeth react to the killing of Duncan? Why does she react this way?
Lady Macbeth doesn't want to think about what a dreadful deed they just committed. She tries to calm down Macbeth and herself by not thinking about it, since think about the murder will make them both crazy (1). She is very bold and manly, since she doesn't seem to fear the fact that they have committed murder and is about to put the blame to the servants. Also she orders Macbeth on what he should do: wash his bloody hands, return the dagger, and put blood on the servants (2). She is very meticulous and sly, since she has specific plans even in a situation that wasn't according to the plan (5). I think she acts bold because Macbeth is being such a coward. Macbeth is not willing to go back to the scene of murder, since he fears the murder he has committed. However, in order for the plan to work, it should look like the servants have murdered Duncan. So Lady Macbeth takes on her courage and returns the dagger to the scene of murder and covers the servants' faces with Duncan's blood (3). Lady Macbeth is very nonchalant and keeps on mocking Macbeth of his cowardly behavior. She tries to get even with him by being an accomplice, and getting her hands bloody (4).
Textual Evidence:
These deeds must not be thought
After these ways. So, it will make us mad. (2.2, line 37)
And wash this filthy witness from your hand.Why did you bring these daggers from the place?They must lie there. Go carry them and smearThe sleepy grooms with blood. (2.2, line 47-50)
Infirm of purpose!
Give me the daggers. The sleeping and the dead
Are but as pictures. (2.2, line 56)
My hands are of your color, but I shameTo wear a heart so white. (2.2, line 69)
Get on your nightgown, lest occasion call us
And show us to be watchers. Be not lost
So poorly in your thoughts. (2.2, line 74)
Macbeth 3.5 & 3.6 Reflection
Write a one sentence summary of each scene.
In 3.5, the three witches meet Hectate, which is the boss of the witches. Hectate is angry because the witches were disobedient and told Macbeth about his future. Hectate orders the witches to trick Macbeth tomorrow morning, when he comes.
In 3.6, Lennox and the Lord is talking together about who might the murder be for the two crimes. Lennox thinks that Macbeth is innocent and Fleance killed Banquo. He also believes that Malcom and Donalbain has killed Duncan. However, the Lord thinks that Macbeth must be behind all the murders that occurred, and this argument persuades Lennox into believing that Macbeth is a bad person.
In 3.6, what suspicions does the Lord have about Macbeth?
The Lord thinks that Macbeth killed Duncan, since he stole the throne from Malcom, which is his birthright to get the throne.
Macbeth 4.1 Reflection
What does Macbeth want in this scene?
Macbeth wants to know what is threatening his throne. He also wants to know if Banquo's sons are ever going to get the throne.
What stands in his way?
Macduff stands in Macbeth's way, since he is suspicious of Macbeth and has gone to England to get help from the King to get rid of Macbeth and his tyrannical ruling. Also the first witch warns Macbeth that Macduff will not obey your orders, thus Macbeth should not keep Macduff by his side.
How does Macbeth attempt overcome the obstacles in his way?
He decides to kill Macduff, even though he is not a big threat to Macbeth. However, at the end of 4.1, his determination to kill Macduff grows even more after he hears Macduff has fled to England. Macbeth decides to kill Macduff and his wife and children.
What do the Witches want in this scene?
They want to confuse Macbeth and mock him. They want to see him go crazy as Hectate ordered the witches to tease Macbeth.
Macbeth Act 5 Reflection
How has Lady Macbeth transformed by the end of the play? Textual Evidence 1 Lady Macbeth:
Here’s the smell of the blood still. All the perfumes of Arabia will not sweeten this little hand. Oh, Oh, Oh!
(5.1, lines 50-52) Explanation
In this scene, she is sleep walking and is talking about the murder of Duncan, which she acted so nonchalantly towards when the actual
murder took place. When Macbeth killed Duncan, Lady Macbeth was pleased to see that Duncan was killed. She did not show any sign of regret or guilt towards it, but rather urged Macbeth to stand his ground and calm himself down. However, in this scene, we can see thatLady Macbeth is terrified that she has done so much murdering, and she feels responsible for them. Her cold blooded murderer-like character changed to an ordinary woman who is fearful of murder and crime. We can see that her personality has changed to a more softer and innocent image from a manly, bold image.
Textual Evidence 2 Macbeth:
Wherefore was that cry? Seyton:
The queen, my lord, is dead.
(5.5, lines 15-16) Explanation
In this scene, Lady Macbeth commits suicide by hanging herself due to the guilt she has. We can see that she was feeling guilty from the start of act 5. Her strange actions of washing her hands and sleep walking at night suggests the readers that she was not comfortable with killing Duncan, and that she feels regretful. She was distracted in her sleep, and was constantly tormented by the murder. This led to her choosing to commit suicide. From this, we can learn that she is "infirm of purpose" herself, and she had a conscience vulnerable like others. As explained in example 1, we can see she has changed a lot from the bold Lady Macbeth to a paranoid Lady Macbeth.
Macbeth Overall Reflection
What is the main idea of the story?
The main idea of the story is change in personality through greed. This idea is shown through Macbeth and Lady Macbeth throughout the play. Initially, Macbeth had a naive and just personality and Lady Macbeth had a bold and ambitious personality. However, as Macbeth and Lady Macbeth goes through committing a series of murder, their personality basically swaps with each other; Macbeth becomes nonchalant to death and Lady Macbeth feels guilt and regret. These changes in personality occurs mainly because of their greed, which was a pure ambition to begin with.
The textual evidence below shows the change in Lady Macbeth's personality.
Evidence 1 Infirm of purpose!Give me the daggers. The sleeping and the deadAre but as pictures. 'Tis the eye of childhoodThat fears a painted devil. If he do bleed,I’ll gild the faces of the grooms withal,For it must seem their guilt. (2.2, lines 52-57)
Evidence 2 Here’s the smell of the blood still. All the perfumes of
Arabia will not sweetenthis little hand. Oh, Oh, Oh! (5.1, lines 34-36) What can we learn from these characters? Select one or two characters and explain your answer.
From Macbeth, we can learn that people should not be greedy. At the beginning of the play, we can see that Macbeth was a naive and had an ambition that was good intentional (evidence 1). However, with the influence of Lady Macbeth, Macbeth's ambition grows into greed. From the beginning of act 2, where Macbeth kills Duncan, Macbeth looses his senses since he feels guilt (evidence 2). By the end of the play, Macbeth becomes a tyrant full of suspicion. He also becomes nonchalant to death, which we can see in Act 5 Scene 5 (evidence 3).
Evidence 1
I have no spur
To prick the sides of my intent, but onlyVaulting ambition, which o'erleaps itselfAnd falls on th' other. (1.7, lines 25- 29)
Evidence 2
There’s one did laugh in ’s sleep, and one cried. “Murder!”That they did wake each other. I stood and heard them.But they did say their prayers, and addressed themAgain to sleep (2.2, lines 22-25)
Evidence 3
I have almost forgot the taste of fears.
The time has been my senses would have cooledTo hear a night-shriek, and my fell of hairWould at a dismal treatise rouse and stirAs life were in ’t. I have supped full with horrors.Direness, familiar to my slaughterous thoughtsCannot once start me. (5.5, lines 9-15)
Do you see recurring images, words, deeds, situations, consequences, mistakes? Select two items from the preceding list and give examples from the play.
Recurring situations: Macbeth commits murder three times, but two of them demonstrate analogy. Macbeth had to kill Duncan to get the throne, and he had to kill Banquo and Fleance (but failed to kill Fleance) to keep the throne. Both instances are related with the throne, and shows how much Macbeth is obsessed with becoming the King.
Recurring Consequences: Both Macbeth and Lady Macbeth are killed or committed suicide. This shows that the consequence for being greedy and killing others will be death. Also, they don't seem happy even when Macbeth becomes the King. Guilt is another consequence given to them, making them feel insecure, leading Macbeth to murder Banquo and Lady Macbeth to committing suicide.
Macbeth 1.3 Reflection
Character Analysis:
WitchesLikes to mock people, but have respect for Macbeth. I think they show respect to higher class people like the thanes (i.e. Macbeth and saying "hail"). On the other hand, considering the fact they are casting a spell on the sailor's wife, they don't seem to like people. They can see the future and have the power to put spells on winds. They have beards on their faces, so it is hard to recognize if they are men or women.
Macbeth
Very naive and nice, since he doesn't want to take the position of the thane of Cawdor, since the thane of Cawdor is alive. Macbeth also shows a slight tendency to believe what the witches have predicted. He is both the thane of Cawdor and Glamis, after Ross and Angus tells him that he is. He is ambitious and anxious by the fact that he is imagining of killing King Duncan.
Banquo
I think Banquo is like a friend of Macbeth. He is very suspicious and acutely intense about the future that the witches predict.
Ross
He is the messenger of the king, and comes with Angus.
Angus
He is the other messenger of the king, who comes with Ross. He tells Macbeth that he will be awarded for winning against the Norwegians.
Outline:
In the first part of act 1 scene 3, the witches appear and talks about the sailor's wife and that they will curse her husband (sailor) for her behavior. Then, Macbeth and Banquo appears. The witches suddenly show respect for Macbeth and tells him he will become the thane of Cawdor and a king later on. Jealous from the prophecy made to Macbeth, Banquo insist the witches that they tell him something as well. The witches make a prediction that Banquo would be the father of kings. When Macbeth and Banquo are alarmed and about to ask the witches if it is true, the witches are gone. Angus and Ross comes and informs Macbeth about him becoming the thane of Cawdor, due to the treason of the original thane of Cawdor. Macbeth and Banquo are both alarmed that the prophecy of the witches were true. Banquo is still reluctant to believe the witches' words, but Macbeth is stimulated and excited by the though of killing King Duncan. Banquo is worried that Macbeth is falling for the devil. Macbeth and Banquo then follow the messengers to the king.Conflicts:
The witches make a prophecy about the future of Macbeth and Banquo. They tell Macbeth, he will become the thane of Cawdor and a king later on, and tell Banquo that he will become the father of kings. This foreshadows that something will occur in the future according to the prophecy (either it is going to come true or not, but there is a high possibility of coming true, because the prophecy that Macbeth will become the thane of Cawdor came true). Also Macbeth becomes the thane of Cawdor and Glamis, and this starts his ambition for more glory. This also proves the credibility of the witches and derives to a conclusion that Macbeth will become a king later on.Macbeth 1.5&1.6 Reflection
What do we learn about Lady Macbeth in these scenes?Lady Macbeth is pleased that Macbeth becomes the thane of Cawdor, and is afraid at the same time. She is afraid because Macbeth mentions in his letter his ambitions towards getting the crown, and Lady Macbeth thinks what Macbeth is trying to do will not succeed, because Macbeth lacks the bad intentions to carry out the murder. Thus, Lady Macbeth tries to support Macbeth's ambition by murdering the king or Malcom with her hands.
How might Lady Macbeth answer the question “What is the meaning of life?” Explain your answer.
I think she might answer that the meaning of life is to sacrifice yourself for the one you love. We can see this in 1.5, line 63-65, when Lady Macbeth tells Macbeth to leave it all to her. She is trying to sacrifice her life/reputation for Macbeth's fame, and just take all the blame for the death of the King.
Identify and write out two of Lady Macbeth’s lines that are particularly striking. Explain why you selected the lines.
Look like th' innocent flower,
But be the serpent under ’t
(1.5, line 56-57)
I thought this line was shocking, because Lady Macbeth just got the letter, and knows what is going on in Macbeth's mind. She even tells Macbeth to act like an innocent flower, but be the snake, which surprised me since she is giving orders to Macbeth to get him slyer. From this passage did I realize that the real sly and evil one is Lady Macbeth. However, it might seem only natural that Lady Macbeth tries to help her husband win glory and fame.
Come, you spirits
That tend on mortal thoughts, unsex me here,And fill me from the crown to the toe top-fullOf direst cruelty. Make thick my blood.Stop up the access and passage to remorse,
(1.5, line 30-34)
This part was striking to me as well, because it shows the willingness of Lady Macbeth to support Macbeth to become the king. I was amazed that she is sacrificing herself for the fame of her husband, because it would be very hard to give up your life even for a person you love.
Identify one significant word that Lady Macbeth uses in 1.5 or 1.6, and define both the denotation and connotation of the word. Explain why you think the word is significant.
Honor (1.6, line 17)
Denotation: high respect, esteem
Connotation: It has a good meaning to it, and it has a respectful tone to it. It slightly has a tone of a servant respecting his master.
Discussion preparation
Question: Why has Macbeth decided to kill King Duncan by the end of Act 1?
Answer:
Macbeth is reluctant to kill King Duncan in the first part of scene 7. However, he changes his mind and decides to kill Duncan because of Lady Macbeth. Lady Macbeth persuades and encourages Macbeth to kill Duncan by provoking Macbeth. Below are quotes from Lady Macbeth that stimulated Macbeth in deciding to kill Duncan.
Textual Evidence: “When Duncan is asleep-whereto the rather shall his day’s hard journey soundly invite him-his two chamberlains will I with wine and wassail so convince that memory, the warder of the brain, shall be a fume, and the receipt of reason a limbeck only (1.7, line 60-72).” - Lady Macbeth has specific plans laid out that convinces Macbeth that this plan can not possibly fail. Before Lady Macbeth told him the plan, he feared they might fail in killing the King, but after Lady Macbeth told him the plan, Macbeth is convinced that the plan is perfect and is going to work. We can see this from the tone of Macbeth’s line before and after the quote explained.
Textual Evidence: “Was the hope drunk wherein you dressed yourself? Hath it slept since? And wakes it now, to look so green and pale at what it did so freely? (1.7, line 36-45)” - Lady Macbeth continuously provokes Macbeth by saying stimulating words like “and live a coward in thine own esteem” and “like the poor cat i’th’ adage?” These words spur Macbeth’s pride as a thane. Lady Macbeth continuously mocks Macbeth’s courage and his behavior before (wanting to kill Duncan and ambitious). This builds up in Macbeth’s mind and possibly pressures him to decide to kill Duncan.
Textual Evidence: “What beast was’t, then, that made you break this enterprise to me? When you durst do it, then you were a man; And to be more than what you were, you would be so much more the man. Nor time nor place did then adhere, and yet you would make both. They have made themselves, and that their fitness now does unmake you. (1.7, line 47-53)”- Lady Macbeth compares the Macbeth before Duncan came to the castle and the Macbeth in the scene. She praises the Macbeth before and shows grave disappointment towards the way Macbeth is cowering in the scene. This also becomes a stimulus for Macbeth. It also gives Macbeth a reason to kill Duncan, because he should try pleasing his wife.
Textual Evidence: “Have plucked my nipple from his boneless gums and dashed the brains out, had I so sworn as you have done to this. (1.7, line 57-59)”- Lady Macbeth shows her determination of keeping her words if she had promised them. This may affect Macth’s pride, because he is a thane that slashes enemies open and Lady Macbeth is a woman that take cares of children. This quote might’ve made Macbeth feel competitive and less braver than Lady Macbeth, which he will not tolerate happening.
Conclusion of the discussion:
I heard an interesting idea from Joshua. He believed that the main reason why Macbeth decided to kill King Duncan was because of his ambitions. He claimed that Lady Macbeth merely spurred Macbeth to making his decisions firm. Hojoon also mentioned that Macbeth was trying to find a person who would support him, like Lady Macbeth, and he already had the intention to kill Duncan. However, I disagreed because the ambition Macbeth had wasn't very strong and he was not so willing to kill Duncan in the fear of the consequences. However, after Lady Macbeth told him specific plans that would resolve the consequences and blames laid to him, Macbeth was determined to kill Duncan. Thus Lady Macbeth is the reason why Macbeth decided to kill the king by the end of Act 1.Act 2 Reflection
How does Macbeth react to the killing of Duncan? Why does he react this way?Macbeth feels very guilty after killing Duncan (2). I think at least he has a conscience, but Lady Macbeth doesn't, since Macbeth actually fears and feels guilt for murdering Duncan. He fears going back to the scene of murder since he doesn't have the guts to go and see the murder he committed (1). He is afraid that he will get punished and he hears voices, because of the overwhelming guilt. Him hearing voices shows that Macbeth is a very cowardly man that has a weak ambition. Also he fears his hands, because it is bloody from the murder. He doubt that his hands are going to be washed even by the ocean (3). From act 2, it seems more like Lady Macbeth has a bigger ambition than he does. Thus, I think Macbeth reacts in a cowardly way since he has a weak ambition and is reluctant to be the king. Also he may not fully believe the prophecy of the witches, which makes him hesitate and look back on what he has done. This weak and hesitant character of Macbeth might make him to react in a cowardly way.
Textual Evidence:
I’ll go no more:I am afraid to think what I have done;Look on ’t again I dare not. (2.2, line 55)
(looking at his hands) This is a sorry sight. (2.2, line 24)
What hands are here? Ha! They pluck out mine eyes.Will all great Neptune’s ocean wash this blood Clean from my hand? (2.2, line 59-61)
How does Lady Macbeth react to the killing of Duncan? Why does she react this way?
Lady Macbeth doesn't want to think about what a dreadful deed they just committed. She tries to calm down Macbeth and herself by not thinking about it, since think about the murder will make them both crazy (1). She is very bold and manly, since she doesn't seem to fear the fact that they have committed murder and is about to put the blame to the servants. Also she orders Macbeth on what he should do: wash his bloody hands, return the dagger, and put blood on the servants (2). She is very meticulous and sly, since she has specific plans even in a situation that wasn't according to the plan (5). I think she acts bold because Macbeth is being such a coward. Macbeth is not willing to go back to the scene of murder, since he fears the murder he has committed. However, in order for the plan to work, it should look like the servants have murdered Duncan. So Lady Macbeth takes on her courage and returns the dagger to the scene of murder and covers the servants' faces with Duncan's blood (3). Lady Macbeth is very nonchalant and keeps on mocking Macbeth of his cowardly behavior. She tries to get even with him by being an accomplice, and getting her hands bloody (4).
Textual Evidence:
These deeds must not be thought
After these ways. So, it will make us mad. (2.2, line 37)
And wash this filthy witness from your hand.Why did you bring these daggers from the place?They must lie there. Go carry them and smearThe sleepy grooms with blood. (2.2, line 47-50)
Infirm of purpose!
Give me the daggers. The sleeping and the dead
Are but as pictures. (2.2, line 56)
My hands are of your color, but I shameTo wear a heart so white. (2.2, line 69)
Get on your nightgown, lest occasion call us
And show us to be watchers. Be not lost
So poorly in your thoughts. (2.2, line 74)
Macbeth 3.5 & 3.6 Reflection
Write a one sentence summary of each scene.
In 3.5, the three witches meet Hectate, which is the boss of the witches. Hectate is angry because the witches were disobedient and told Macbeth about his future. Hectate orders the witches to trick Macbeth tomorrow morning, when he comes.
In 3.6, Lennox and the Lord is talking together about who might the murder be for the two crimes. Lennox thinks that Macbeth is innocent and Fleance killed Banquo. He also believes that Malcom and Donalbain has killed Duncan. However, the Lord thinks that Macbeth must be behind all the murders that occurred, and this argument persuades Lennox into believing that Macbeth is a bad person.
In 3.6, what suspicions does the Lord have about Macbeth?
The Lord thinks that Macbeth killed Duncan, since he stole the throne from Malcom, which is his birthright to get the throne.
Macbeth 4.1 Reflection
What does Macbeth want in this scene?Macbeth wants to know what is threatening his throne. He also wants to know if Banquo's sons are ever going to get the throne.
What stands in his way?
Macduff stands in Macbeth's way, since he is suspicious of Macbeth and has gone to England to get help from the King to get rid of Macbeth and his tyrannical ruling. Also the first witch warns Macbeth that Macduff will not obey your orders, thus Macbeth should not keep Macduff by his side.
How does Macbeth attempt overcome the obstacles in his way?
He decides to kill Macduff, even though he is not a big threat to Macbeth. However, at the end of 4.1, his determination to kill Macduff grows even more after he hears Macduff has fled to England. Macbeth decides to kill Macduff and his wife and children.
What do the Witches want in this scene?
They want to confuse Macbeth and mock him. They want to see him go crazy as Hectate ordered the witches to tease Macbeth.
Macbeth Act 5 Reflection
How has Lady Macbeth transformed by the end of the play?Textual Evidence 1
Lady Macbeth:
Here’s the smell of the blood still. All the perfumes of Arabia will not sweeten this little hand. Oh, Oh, Oh!
(5.1, lines 50-52)
Explanation
In this scene, she is sleep walking and is talking about the murder of Duncan, which she acted so nonchalantly towards when the actual
murder took place. When Macbeth killed Duncan, Lady Macbeth was pleased to see that Duncan was killed. She did not show any sign of regret or guilt towards it, but rather urged Macbeth to stand his ground and calm himself down. However, in this scene, we can see thatLady Macbeth is terrified that she has done so much murdering, and she feels responsible for them. Her cold blooded murderer-like character changed to an ordinary woman who is fearful of murder and crime. We can see that her personality has changed to a more softer and innocent image from a manly, bold image.
Textual Evidence 2
Macbeth:
Wherefore was that cry?
Seyton:
The queen, my lord, is dead.
(5.5, lines 15-16)
Explanation
In this scene, Lady Macbeth commits suicide by hanging herself due to the guilt she has. We can see that she was feeling guilty from the start of act 5. Her strange actions of washing her hands and sleep walking at night suggests the readers that she was not comfortable with killing Duncan, and that she feels regretful. She was distracted in her sleep, and was constantly tormented by the murder. This led to her choosing to commit suicide. From this, we can learn that she is "infirm of purpose" herself, and she had a conscience vulnerable like others. As explained in example 1, we can see she has changed a lot from the bold Lady Macbeth to a paranoid Lady Macbeth.
Macbeth Overall Reflection
What is the main idea of the story?
The main idea of the story is change in personality through greed. This idea is shown through Macbeth and Lady Macbeth throughout the play. Initially, Macbeth had a naive and just personality and Lady Macbeth had a bold and ambitious personality. However, as Macbeth and Lady Macbeth goes through committing a series of murder, their personality basically swaps with each other; Macbeth becomes nonchalant to death and Lady Macbeth feels guilt and regret. These changes in personality occurs mainly because of their greed, which was a pure ambition to begin with.
The textual evidence below shows the change in Lady Macbeth's personality.
Evidence 1
Infirm of purpose!Give me the daggers. The sleeping and the deadAre but as pictures. 'Tis the eye of childhoodThat fears a painted devil. If he do bleed,I’ll gild the faces of the grooms withal,For it must seem their guilt. (2.2, lines 52-57)
Evidence 2
Here’s the smell of the blood still. All the perfumes of
Arabia will not sweetenthis little hand. Oh, Oh, Oh! (5.1, lines 34-36)
What can we learn from these characters? Select one or two characters and explain your answer.
From Macbeth, we can learn that people should not be greedy. At the beginning of the play, we can see that Macbeth was a naive and had an ambition that was good intentional (evidence 1). However, with the influence of Lady Macbeth, Macbeth's ambition grows into greed. From the beginning of act 2, where Macbeth kills Duncan, Macbeth looses his senses since he feels guilt (evidence 2). By the end of the play, Macbeth becomes a tyrant full of suspicion. He also becomes nonchalant to death, which we can see in Act 5 Scene 5 (evidence 3).
Evidence 1
I have no spur
To prick the sides of my intent, but onlyVaulting ambition, which o'erleaps itselfAnd falls on th' other. (1.7, lines 25- 29)
Evidence 2
There’s one did laugh in ’s sleep, and one cried. “Murder!”That they did wake each other. I stood and heard them.But they did say their prayers, and addressed themAgain to sleep (2.2, lines 22-25)
Evidence 3
I have almost forgot the taste of fears.
The time has been my senses would have cooledTo hear a night-shriek, and my fell of hairWould at a dismal treatise rouse and stirAs life were in ’t. I have supped full with horrors.Direness, familiar to my slaughterous thoughtsCannot once start me. (5.5, lines 9-15)
Do you see recurring images, words, deeds, situations, consequences, mistakes? Select two items from the preceding list and give examples from the play.
Recurring situations: Macbeth commits murder three times, but two of them demonstrate analogy. Macbeth had to kill Duncan to get the throne, and he had to kill Banquo and Fleance (but failed to kill Fleance) to keep the throne. Both instances are related with the throne, and shows how much Macbeth is obsessed with becoming the King.
Recurring Consequences: Both Macbeth and Lady Macbeth are killed or committed suicide. This shows that the consequence for being greedy and killing others will be death. Also, they don't seem happy even when Macbeth becomes the King. Guilt is another consequence given to them, making them feel insecure, leading Macbeth to murder Banquo and Lady Macbeth to committing suicide.